Skip to main content

Lentil Taco Filling

A tasty alternative to meat or fish tacos that provides a filling rich in flavor.
Bowl of seasoned lentils with vegetables garnished with cilantro.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Makes: 2 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

2 teaspoons vegetable oil
½ cup chopped onion
½ cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
1 clove garlic, minced or ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
½ cup dried lentils, rinsed
4 ½ teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon oregano (optional)
1 ¼ cups low-sodium broth (any flavor)
½ teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. Rinse or scrub fresh vegetables under running water before preparing.

  3. In a large skillet, heat oil on medium. Add the onion, bell pepper and garlic. Sauté until tender, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the lentils, chili powder, cumin and oregano, if desired. Cook and stir for 1 minute.
  5. Add broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover the skillet and simmer until the lentils are tender, about 20 to 30 minutes for brown lentils. Add water if necessary to keep the lentils just covered with liquid.
  6. Uncover the skillet and cook until the mixture thickens and most of the water is gone, about 5 to 10 minutes. Add salt, if desired.
  7. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Use for tacos, wraps or salad.
  • Different types of lentils have different cooking times. Check the package or bulk bin for how long to cook the type you buy.

Comments

This recipe is a perfect intro recipe to lentils for someone just starting to use lentils. This taco filling gives off such a great flavor. This was a great vegetarian taco filling option. This recipe also pairs well with the Food Hero Pico De Gallo salsa recipe!

A great vegetarian dish to have for several nights of varied uses.

A great way to use lentils and super low cost dinner!  Was easy too, and i got it cooking first and then had the perfect amout of time to prep the rest of the meal - we made tostadas.  I put a layer of lentils down on the tostada first and then topped with beans and cheese and veggie, and the kids ate every bite...

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Strawberry Kiwi Flavored Water
Glasses of water with strawberry and kiwi slices.

Strawberry Kiwi Flavored Water

A delicious way to flavor your water!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Fruit Cooler
Frothy pink fruit drink with a straw.

Fruit Cooler

Use your favorite fruit to make this sweet and refreshing drink to make on a hot summer day with your favorite fruit.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Stovetop Bulgur
Bowl of soft, cooked bulgur.

Stovetop Bulgur

Nutrient-rich whole grain with a light and nutty flavor that cooks quickly.
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
3 cups
Cinnamon Baked Pears
Four pear halves stuffed with walnuts and cranberries sprinkled with cinnamon in a bowl.

Cinnamon Baked Pears

Fresh pears are topped with dried cranberries, walnuts and a drizzle of honey for an easy low-sugar dessert.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
4 Pear Halves
Pear Quesadillas
Plate of golden tortilla folded over a cheese, pear and vegetable filling.

Pear Quesadillas

A unique and delicious sweet and savory quesadilla recipe.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
8 wedges
Stovetop Tuna Casserole
Bowl of egg noodles with peas and tuna mixed in.

Stovetop Tuna Casserole

Tender egg noodles with a creamy sauce, bright peas and tasty tuna.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
7 Cups